21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s a perfectly acceptable figure for the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD with its 3.6L V6. This isn’t a compact crossover; it’s a mid-size SUV offering a blend of comfort, capability, and classic Jeep styling. Buyers in this segment prioritize space, towing capacity, available luxury features, and the reassurance of a brand known for its off-road heritage, even if they rarely venture off the pavement. The fuel economy simply factors into the equation as a price of admission, rather than the primary deciding factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD 3.6L are specific: 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving and idling, conditions where larger engines typically struggle. The Grand Cherokee’s V6, while smooth and refined, needs fuel to move its considerable mass. The highway figure, however, is more respectable. The 8-speed automatic transmission plays a key role here, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, reducing fuel consumption on long drives. These numbers align with the Grand Cherokee’s character as a comfortable road-trip vehicle, better suited for open highways than congested urban environments. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps it reach this potential.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD 3.6L is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Grand Cherokee’s running costs against competitors. Individual spending will vary depending on driving habits, location, and fluctuating gas prices, but the $2,100 estimate provides a standardized point of comparison.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized yardstick, real-world fuel economy can deviate. Factors like aggressive acceleration, extended idling, carrying heavy loads, and neglecting maintenance can all negatively impact MPG. Drivers who frequently tow with their Grand Cherokee should expect significantly lower fuel economy than the EPA estimates. However, those who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and keep their tires properly inflated are more likely to achieve or even exceed the EPA numbers. It will also depend on the terrain in ones regularly driven area. Areas known as having a lot of hills will be more fuel-consuming than flat areas.

How it compares

The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s fuel economy should be considered relative to its competitors. A 2017 Toyota 4Runner, with its less advanced 5-speed automatic transmission, achieves a combined 19 MPG. A 2017 Ford Explorer with its base 3.5L V6 manages 20 MPG combined. A Dodge Durango with its base 3.6L manages 21 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight that the Grand Cherokee’s fuel economy is typical for its class, despite not leading the pack. If fuel economy is a top priority, buyers might consider a smaller, more fuel-efficient crossover, but they’d sacrifice the Grand Cherokee’s interior space and its Jeep DNA. Buyers can investigate all Jeep fuel economy data to see how the Grand Cherokee’s numbers stack up against the rest of the Jeep lineup. Or they can view GRAND MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.6L V6 in the 2017 Grand Cherokee is responsive, but aggressive acceleration will hurt your fuel economy. Practice smooth and gradual acceleration from a standstill, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize braking. The Grand Cherokee’s weight requires extra fuel to get moving, so avoid abrupt starts.

The Grand Cherokee’s 8-speed automatic is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range. Avoid using the manual shift mode unless necessary. Let the transmission do its job ,it’s programmed to optimize fuel economy as much as possible while still delivering adequate performance.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door). Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Aim for the upper end of the recommended range when possible.

Unnecessary weight increases fuel consumption. Remove any items from the cargo area that you don’t need, such as tools, sports equipment, or other clutter. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, which burns more fuel. Consider the weight of passengers and cargo carried regularly.

Proper maintenance is important for optimal fuel economy. Ensure your engine is properly tuned, and replace air filters and spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A neglected engine will run less efficiently, resulting in lower MPG. Regular oil changes, every 5,000-7,500 miles with synthetic oil, also helps keep the engine operating smooth.